IPL 2023: One of the three original teams, Punjab Kings, has not yet captured the Indian Premier League championship. Nothing has worked for the Mohali-based team over the years despite mid-season captain changes, full makeovers, and even name and logo changes.
Since 2014, they have not made the playoffs, which has led to another leadership shift. The Kings kept the majority of their 2022 roster but released their top player and captain Mayank Agarwal. In 2023, Shikhar Dhawan will take over as club leader, and he’ll have a lot riding on it.
The Punjab Kings roster for the 2023 season includes a sizable number of new players who have excelled in domestic cricket. We will now take a closer look at three of these athletes who might have a breakthrough year in 2023.
Also Read: IPL 2023: 3 Punjab Kings Players Who Can Win the Man of the Tournament Award
IPL 2023: Here are 3 Youngsters from PBKS Who might Shine this Season
1. Shahrukh Khan
In the domestic scene, Shahrukh Khan enjoys a stellar image for frequently giving Tamil Nadu match-winning performances. His promise was recognised because the Punjab Kings purchased him in the 2021 auction and have kept him ever since.
But with only 270 runs in 19 appearances so far, his IPL exploits have been anything but impressive. He has a meagre hit rate of 121.62 and an average slightly below 20.
The Punjab Kings, however, have continued to believe in the devastating batter and have signed him for the 2023 campaign. Everyone can see the ability and skill, but the Kings and Shahrukh will be desperate for a strong performance in the IPL this year.
2. Raj Bawa
Raj Angad Bawa gained notoriety after his achievement in the ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup in 2022. The southpaw was an important member of India’s middle order, scoring 252 runs in five games.
He was frequently the link that broke the partnership. He also contributed with the ball in hand. He spent time with the Punjab Kings in the IPL thanks to his World Cup performances. In the 2022 season, he only received a few chances and had no effect. Prior to the sale, the team decided to keep him, and the 2023 season might offer him more opportunities.
Given the scarcity of Indian all-rounders, Bawa may wind up getting more opportunities during the 2023 season. There is no question about the 20-year-ability. old’s possesses and it could well be a big year for Bawa.
3. Prabhsimran Singh
Since joining the Punjab Kings in 2019, Prabhsimran Singh has only appeared in six games. Despite the small sample size, his performance thus far is unremarkable; he has scored only 64 runs at an average of 10.67 and a strike rate below 100.
However, thanks to his dependable efforts for Punjab, he has established himself in the domestic scene. The 22-year-old finished third in runs scored in the recently finished Syed Mushtaq Ali Cup, trailing only Yash Dhull and Prithvi Shaw.
In nine innings, he tallied 320 runs, including four half-centuries. His contributions enabled his team to advance to the semifinals, where they fell to Himachal Pradesh. This year, Prabhsimran will be looking for more chances to transfer his local form to the IPL.
Also read: T20 World Cup 2022: Former India Skipper Mithali Raj Praised Rohit Sharma’s Captaincy Skills
